City of Texico
Grants Awarded
The City of Texico is undertaking the KK Runnels Memorial Park Walking Trail Project, a vital component of the City’s broader community revitalization and sustainability efforts. This project will establish a safe, firm and stable, ADA-accessible walking path designed to encourage outdoor recreation, improve public health, and strengthen community connections within the heart of Texico. KK Runnels Memorial Park serves as the City’s primary public recreational space, hosting community events, youth sports, and family gatherings. However, the park currently lacks a dedicated, accessible walking trail that accommodates residents of all ages and abilities. This project addresses that need by constructing a continuous walking path with a compacted aggregate base installed over geotextile fabric, complemented by water-efficient landscaping and clear wayfinding signage. These improvements will enhance both usability and safety while supporting the City’s long-term commitment to fiscal responsibility and water conservation. The project’s design emphasizes inclusivity, safety, and sustainability. By providing a clearly defined, accessible route suitable for walking, jogging, and mobility devices, the trail will serve as a year-round recreational asset for families, seniors, and individuals seeking to improve their health and well-being. Landscaping improvements utilizing native, drought-tolerant vegetation will further reduce maintenance requirements and water consumption while preserving the natural character of the park. Primary Goals Promote Community Health and Wellness – Encourage active lifestyles by providing a safe and inviting walking space accessible to residents of all ages and abilities. Enhance Safety and Accessibility – Incorporate ADA-compliant design standards, firm and stable trail surfacing, and clear signage to ensure consistent and equitable access for all users. Support Sustainability and Water Conservation – Utilize drought-tolerant native vegetation and low-maintenance design practices aligned with Texico’s water conservation goals. Strengthen Community Cohesion – Create an inclusive recreational amenity that fosters social connection, civic pride, and community engagement. Advance Long-Term Park Revitalization – Complement ongoing improvements at KK Runnels Memorial Park, including playground upgrades, turf conservation measures, and infrastructure modernization. This project represents a key step in the City of Texico’s long-term vision to build a vibrant, sustainable, and healthy community. By prioritizing accessibility, safety, and environmentally responsible design, the KK Runnels Memorial Park Walking Trail will enhance daily quality of life for Texico residents while serving as a practical model for rural community revitalization across Eastern New Mexico.
The City of Texico, New Mexico, is a small but forward-thinking municipality committed to responsible governance, community revitalization, and long-term sustainability. Our mission is to provide transparent, efficient, and responsive leadership that strengthens public trust, promotes economic growth, and enhances the quality of life for all residents. Founded in 1902, Texico stands as the eastern gateway to New Mexico, a community rooted in agricultural heritage and defined by resilience and collaboration. With a population of approximately 930 residents, the city continues to set an example for how small communities can achieve large-scale progress through strategic planning, fiscal discipline, and community partnerships. Over the past several years, Texico has prioritized infrastructure modernization, environmental stewardship, and public safety as part of its long-term development strategy. Major ongoing and completed projects include: KK Runnels Memorial Park Modernization Project, transforming the City’s central park into an ADA-accessible, family-oriented recreational hub with upgraded facilities, water-efficient landscaping, and solar lighting.
Regional Water Conservation and Turf Replacement Initiative, a 12-school collaborative project projected to save over 10 million gallons of water annually by replacing natural athletic fields with synthetic turf—helping preserve the Ogallala Aquifer and reduce maintenance costs.
Citywide Water System Improvements, including upgrades to water tanks, distribution lines, and meters to ensure reliable service, conservation compliance, and improved efficiency.
The City of Texico also maintains strong intergovernmental partnerships with Curry County, the Eastern Plains Council of Governments, and the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration (DFA). These collaborations ensure accountability, technical support, and alignment with regional and state development priorities. A significant recent milestone for the City has been achieving a positive audit finding for the first time in over 20 years, bringing Texico fully into compliance with state financial standards. This accomplishment marks a major turnaround in fiscal health and demonstrates the City’s steadfast commitment to accountability, transparency, and responsible management of public funds. Today, Texico continues to build on that momentum by pursuing projects that balance community growth with sustainability. Guided by a dedicated governing body and staff, the city remains focused on delivering essential services, upgrading infrastructure, and fostering a safe, vibrant environment where residents and future generations can thrive.